Hardeman Co. NAACP Protests Irons Firing
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Nearly three months after Bolivar Police Chief Bill Irons was fired, the Hardeman County Chapter of the NAACP is calling for his immediate reinstatement. Leaders with the civil rights group says the 29-year law enforcement veteran was fired for no valid reason. The group held a news conference in Bolivar, Monday, and demanded Irons not only be given his job back but be paid back pay. Though representatives would not say if they believe the firing was racially motivated, they did say the firing occurred just six months before Irons was eligible for retirement, which they called an injustice. “The mayor simply has to decide that he made a mistake,” said Monroe Woods, President of the Hardeman Co. Chapter of the NAACP. “Maybe there was a different way he could have done that and simply re-appoint him.” Irons said he was flattered by the show of support and remains proud of the work he did as chief. “I was once told, ‘Guard your reputation because one day it might have to speak for you,'” said Irons. “I have guarded my character, my reputation and today they are speaking for me.” NAACP leaders say they will wait for the mayor’s response before taking further action.
